History
Belize has a great history, with much culture and diversity abounding. Look below for a brief outline of the countries time line in history.
Approximately AD 200
The Mayan Indians settled in the country now known as Belize. Proof to this hypothesis lies throughout the country, with many ancient ruins, sites, villages, and stone work. Little is known about the Mayan Civilization, much is merely guessed by those who study their intricate, creative, and stunning architectural work. The Mayan people inhabited much of Belize until around AD 1000, when the population decreased and the civilization virtually collapsed (no one knows why, but speculations of leaving for the Yucatan), leaving only few Mayan ancestors.
Approximately AD 1500
The Spanish spotted the uncharted world of now days Belize, but found the country unappealing for settlement due to the harsh coastal area.
Approximately AD 1600
The British settled in the country in the 1600’s and guarded it for many years from Spanish invaders. The Belizean coast provided a safe harbor from pirates and invaders for many years. This country was used mainly for the use of cutting logwood, used for creating dye. This was the main purpose of this settlement for this logwood production and export, and was not planned for British settlement. Not until the late 1700’s did British have full control over the country after engaging in the Battle of St. George’s Caye in 1798, defeating the Spanish. The country we now know as Belize was then called British Honduras, being made an official British colony.
1964
British Honduras, as it was called before 1973 adopted a new constitution, which helped stabilized their government and give more freedom and rights to the Belizean people.
1973
The country’s official name officially was changed from British Honduras to Belize.
1981
The country is officially free. The old broken government was overthrown, and with it came the new world of democracy and independence. The country broke free of British rule, and was considered a free country.
Currently, Mayan descendants still inhabit some of Belize, carrying with it the culture of these great people. Belize is a free country, independent from the British (although military forces still reside to help national security), with a rather stable government and bright hopes for the future.
